My Instagram account was hacked about a month ago. Since then, I’ve… (fill in the blank). This is one of the most common calls we receive on our 800 number. Unfortunately, Facebook and Instagram don’t have humans you can call to help. Instead, they offer web interfaces in the application in which to report an issue.
To report a hack on your Facebook or Instagram account, follow these steps:
1. Login: If you can still access your account, log in to your Facebook or Instagram account.
2. Secure Account: Change your password immediately if you haven't already. Make sure to create a strong and unique password.
3. Access Help Center: On Facebook, click on the question mark icon in the top-right corner, then select "Help Center." On Instagram, go to your profile, tap the three horizontal lines, and select "Settings" > "Help" > "Help Center."
4. Search for "Hacked Account": In the Help Center's search bar, type "Hacked Account" and search for relevant articles or guides.
5. Follow Steps: Click on the appropriate article or guide about hacked accounts. Follow the provided steps to report the hack and regain access to your account.
6. Submit a Report: You'll usually find a link to report a hacked account. Click on the link and fill out the necessary information, including your account details and a description of the issue.
7. Additional Documentation: Depending on the platform, you might be asked to provide additional documentation to prove your identity and ownership of the account. This could include a photo ID or other verifying information.
8. Follow Up: After submitting the report, you may receive follow-up emails or messages from Facebook or Instagram support. Be sure to respond promptly and provide any requested information.
9. Patience: It might take some time for the support team to review your report and assist you in recovering your account. Be patient and regularly check your email for updates.
10. Prevent Future Hacks: After regaining access, take steps to prevent future hacks. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA), use strong passwords, and be cautious about sharing personal information online.
Remember that the steps and options might vary based on the platform's current features and policies, so always refer to the official Help Center or support resources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
And as always, if you continue to need assistance, please feel free to contact one of our Virtual CISO™s.